wholesale gas prices fell today after california governor jerry brown yesterday eased the state's gas-blend requirements. the change allows refiners to start processing a less- expensive winter fuel blend today, about three weeks ahead of schedule. california's strict air quality standards require a specific gasoline blend that's not necessary in other states, resulting in only a handful of refiners making it. the price spike came after a power outage at an exxon refinery reduced the state's production. in texas, b.p. announced today it is selling its texas city refinery. marathon petroleum is buying it for $2.5 billion, including the oil supplies on sight. this refinery was the sight of a deadly explosion in 2005, leading to a record fine against b.p. for safety failures. >> susie: those high gasoline prices could keep americans home this holiday season. but, it may not mean holiday stockings will go empty. according to a variety of retail sources, americans plan to do a lot of their shopping in the comfort of their own homes, online. in fact online sales could be a bright spot in an other